The famous Hart mansion will stand alone -- for now -- after city council kiboshed a developer's proposal to build townhouses surrounding the Patterson Heights home.

While the 7-7 tie vote defeats the proposal to see 15 units built around the home, it does not ensure the 101-year-old house, once owned by wrestling giant Stu Hart, is spared the wrecker's ball.

People opposed to the plan for three-storey units expressed concerns over issues such as the high density, noise and privacy, while others backed it as a way to preserve the building while creating denser communities.

Mayor Dave Bronconnier said he opposed the design.

"I encourage them to come back with a better plan," he said.

The owner can now develop a single-family home on the property or apply to council to develop 12 single-family units. There is nothing to prevent him from demolishing the home.